kind souls? Some comments here?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Smith College
1

<p>I visited Smith during the summer and stayed overnight. The campus was absolutely gorgeous! I loved it. I’m definitely applying here, but I’m not sure about my chances though…</p>

<p>GPA: 3.97
Rank: top 3%
I think my school is pretty competitive
SAT: 640/740/690 (M/V/W) newest score isn’t out yet
SAT II: 690, 680, 790, 650, 650
Courses: 16 H, 4 AP (5’s on the AP exams)
Club: 3, VP, Chair, secretary
Volunteering: 4, very consistent
Teacher’s Recommendation: supposed to be really good
Counselor Rec: probably pretty bad, because I don’t think she likes me much. O well, I tried. </p>

<p>I’m worried about my math SAT, because I’m an Asian and only got 640 on it. The other thing is that I’ll probably need a great scholarship if I were to convince my mother to let me go to Smith as opposed to a state school. I don’t do any sport, even though I do work A LOT of hours after school. </p>

<p>Do you think I’ll get in? If so, how does Smith determine financial aid? What should I be doing? Any response will be appreciated.</p>

2

<p>As far as being admitted goes, I think you have excellent chances.</p>

<p>Smith's need-based merit aid is excellent, the merit aid rather stingy. Otoh, Smith's aid packages generally wind up being somewhat to very competitive compared to the cost of many state schools...or at least the UC's.</p>

3

<p>First of all, you don't need a higher math score just because you're Asian. That's a myth - and an insidious one if you already are afraid of your chances. Smith is known for considering the entire application - which means that you really have to shine in your essays. Based on your stats, you seem to fit right into the middle of those Smith accepts.</p>

<p>TD is right about merit aid, though. It exists at Smith (unlike at many top LACs), but it is reserved mostly for women who have already excelled in the sciences or who want to study engineering. The few non-science recipients are true academic and EC stars. Still, a large percentage of the student body receives need-based financial aid.</p>